Metrological verification of GNSS equipment in Moldova
What is known about the verification requirements for GNSS receivers and total stations in Moldova and what should be clarified directly with INM.
A GNSS receiver or a total station is a measuring instrument, and for measuring instruments used in certain areas, metrological control applies. This article collects what is known from public sources about the requirements in Moldova and shows clearly what remains unconfirmed. It is not legal advice: the current requirements must be clarified directly with the National Institute of Metrology (INM).
What metrological verification is
Metrological verification (in the terminology of the official list: initial and periodic verification) confirms that an instrument meets the accuracy requirements. Initial verification is done before the instrument is put into use, periodic verification at set intervals.
The base document
The relevant framework is Government Decision No. 1042/2016 of 13.09.2016, which approves the official list of measuring instruments subject to legal metrological control. The text of the list is published by INM on the institute's website.
What is known about GNSS receivers
According to the text of the list that we reviewed, item 11.4.1 "Receptoare ale GNSS" (GNSS receivers) provides for:
- initial verification (VI)
- periodic verification (VP)
- interval between verifications: 12 months
In this edition of the list, type approval is not indicated for GNSS receivers.
What is unclear for total stations
The situation for total stations is less clear:
- In the edition reviewed, theodolites and topographic telescopes (item 7.3.6) have a 12-month interval. Total stations do not appear there as a separate item
- In another edition of the list, possibly an older one, there is an item "Taheometre" with a 12-month interval, type approval, initial and periodic verification
- Which edition is in force and whether a total station falls under item 7.3.6 is not confirmed
We recommend clarifying this with INM before planning your work.
Who performs verification
From the public sources reviewed:
- INM carries out tests for type approval and metrological verifications
- INGEOCAD, a state enterprise that also operates the MOLDPOS network, offers calibration and repair of geodetic instruments
- CMAC has a general metrological verification service; whether it covers geodetic equipment is not confirmed
Who exactly is currently authorized to verify GNSS receivers and total stations must be clarified with INM.
What it means in practice
If your work falls under legal metrological control, the instrument must have valid verification, and the interval stated in the list for GNSS receivers is 12 months. If you work for private clients and the measurements are not subject to legal control, the requirements may differ; in that case too, clarify the conditions with the client or with INM.
In practice, when buying new equipment we recommend that you:
- ask the seller which documents come with the instrument
- clarify with INM whether the model needs type approval or other formalities
- plan periodic verification in advance: every 12 months for GNSS receivers
- keep the verification documents
How to prepare your question for INM
Before contacting the institute, prepare the model and serial number of the instrument, the purpose of the work (for example cadastre, construction or internal use) and the documents that come with the equipment. With these data the answer will be more precise, and you will know whether verification is needed and by when.
Other requirements on import
Equipment with radio modules (Bluetooth, WiFi, 4G, UHF radio) may have its own conformity requirements, and the use of radio frequencies is a separate matter. We have not verified the specific requirements or the competent authority; they should be clarified before import and use.
If you are choosing equipment, see GNSS receivers or total stations. For questions, write to us on the Contacts page.